Fireplaces are not very energy-efficient generally. For this reason, you can use a fireplace insert to help improve its efficiency.
The design of most fireplace inserts makes them look like wood or gas stoves with no legs. Well, the fireplace inserts are metal structures designed to fit into the common fireplace position to improve the efficiency of the fireplace. You can expect that the insert would also have a decorative look and have seamless integration with the existing fireplace.
What Is The Difference Between A Fireplace And A Fireplace Insert?
A fireplace can be defined as a masonry space that allows you to burn wood and vent it through a chimney. Keep in mind that there can be different types of fireplaces other than wood-burning options. They include electric, gel, and gas fireplaces. Even if that is the case, they will still be vital for keeping the room warm.
A fireplace insert on the other hand is a metal unit that can be inserted into an existing fireplace. It would be smaller than a fireplace and will mostly have glass fronts and viewing ports.
Just like fireplaces, there are different types available including wood-burning, gas-burning, and electric fireplace inserts.
The Cost
You can expect that most of the fireplace inserts will range from $500 to $3500 depending on the type of fireplace among other costs required to have it set up correctly.
Do not worry much about the labor costs needed to install the fireplace insert. Most of the time, you may have to clean the chimney first if it is a wood-burning fireplace, run new tubings and vents for gas fireplaces, and more. Nevertheless, the fireplace expert will give you the right estimates for installation upon visiting your home for inspection.
Types of Fireplace Inserts
- Electric Fireplace Inserts
The electric fireplace inserts are the simplest you can find in the market. This is because there is no need for combustion and venting. Still, you do not need permits to have it set up, as such, it will be quite easy to install it.
The electric fireplace insert is simply an accessory to the existing fireplace. So, its job is to improve the appearance of your electric fireplace through adjustment of the flame size among other features depending on the type.
Make sure you can get power to the electric fireplace insert so that you can operate it to accessorize the electric fireplace.
- Wood-Burning Fireplace Inserts
The wood fireplace inserts are also essential for giving your fireplace more beauty while at the same time improving its performance. Without the fireplace inserts, the wood fireplace has an efficiency rating of 50%. However, this improves significantly with the introduction of fireplace inserts as it minimizes energy wasted.
The benefit of wood-burning fireplaces is that you get more heat output. On average, you can get up to 85,000 BTUs.
- Gas Fireplace Inserts
The gas fireplace inserts are always installed by a professional. This is because there might be a need for a few adjustments to ensure there are no leaks to your gas fireplace.
You can expect to find the gas fireplace inserts to be quite efficient. Most inserts make the fireplace produce from 25,000 to 40,000 BTUs. This is enough for heating a medium-sized room. Expect the average price for such inserts to range from $1,400 to $3,000.
Does A Fireplace Insert Add Value To Your Home?
Generally, a fireplace on its own would increase the value of your home. It is estimated that it can increase the value by 6 to 12 percent depending on the location. Areas with cold climates could always use houses with a fireplace. So, it is vital to consider it.
It is the same thing with a fireplace insert. It is mostly decorative, but it can also add value to your home because of how it brings out the decor of your fireplace.
Can You Put A Fireplace Insert In An Existing Fireplace?
Yes. That is mostly its performance in the first place. If you just bought a house that did not have a fireplace insert, you can source the fireplace with an insert. Ensure that you take note of the dimensions so that you can buy a fireplace insert that will fit properly in the fireplace.
Do Fireplace Inserts Need A Chimney?
It depends on the type of fireplace insert. If the fireplace insert is meant for the wood-burning fireplace, then it needs a chimney. This is vital for venting the harmful fumes generated from the burning of wood.
How Long Do Fireplace Inserts Last?
The fireplace inserts have an average lifespan of 18 to 30 years. Well, it can be more depending on how well you care for the fireplace inserts. Simply follow the recommended maintenance processes to have the fireplace insert looking good years down the line.
Conclusion: Is A Fireplace Insert Worth It?
Yes. A fireplace insert in addition to making your fireplace look great will also do a good job of improving its efficiency. You can expect to find that the energy use is better than before once the fireplace insert is installed. Also, it makes it easier to run options such as wood fireplaces whereby they keep the ashes contained.
